A 28-year-old woman arrives at an urgent care clinic after twisting her ankle while jogging. She reports pain rated 5/10 and mild swelling is noted over the lateral malleolus, with the ankle able to bear partial weight. Explain why the nurse would apply ice intermittently to the injured area during the first 24 to 48 hours?
- Ice causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow to the area and limits swelling and inflammation.
- Ice numbs the nerve endings permanently so the client no longer feels pain from the injury.
- Ice causes vasodilation, which increases circulation and speeds healing of the ligament.
- Ice is applied to raise the local tissue temperature, which helps prevent muscle spasm.